The rumors of a Mike Love/Brian Wilson Reunion have come and gone through the years, but with the Beach Boys preparing to launch their 50th anniversary tour, speculation has grown feral.

In an attempt to cool the wildfires of rumor, Mike Love released the following statement last week through his publicist: “The Beach Boys continue to tour approximately 150 shows a year in multiple countries. At this time there are no plans for my cousin Brian to rejoin the tour. He has new solo projects on the horizon and I wish him love and success."

As disappointing as this is, Love did offer a little hope that the two would give fans new music in the distant future. He continued, "We have had some discussions of writing and possibly recording together, but nothing has been planned."

In the mid-sixties, Wilson became absent on the concert stage but remained an official member until 1970. As of late, he has returned to recording and releasing solo projects but to see him perform live is a rare treat indeed.

For a band to have endured for half a century is a extraordinary feat and their songs, which are anthems of summer to many, are pieces of Americana. It is natural for fans to want to see true harmony return, but at this point it seems to be an improbable dream.

Even so, I'm sure the anniversary tour will be worth catching for long-time fans. Tour dates for this summer and into the fall can be found at the band's website.